01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and creamy using an electric mixer or sturdy whisk.
04 - Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until fully combined.
05 - Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
06 - Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed.
07 - Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart.
08 - If desired, sprinkle extra crushed peppermint on top of the dough balls for added decoration and crunch.
09 - Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until cookie edges are lightly golden and centers remain soft.
10 - Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.